Here’s What You Should Wear to a Barre Workout
What you wear to a workout can completely change your mentality. It’s distracting when you’re wearing uncomfortable bottoms that ride up or a top that constantly needs repositioning. So even though your workout isn’t necessarily a fashion show (though it certainly can be!), the right clothes really help you focus on the exercises at hand. If you’re wondering what exactly to wear to a barre workout, we broke down all the musts below so you can get the most out of your sweat.
Alo Moves barre instructor Emily Sferra wears form-fitting clothing to clearly see her positioning and to get a full range of motion with each move. Once you get your outfit on lock, check out her series like New to: Barre, Arms & Abs, and Total Barre 20.
Your Barre Workout Outfit Checklist
Fitted tops
Proper form in barre classes cannot be overstated! Since it’s ballet-inspired, you’ll want to check your positioning with your arms and core, and a more fitted top is best in this case.
Leggings
Full-length or cropped leggings are preferable since shorts can cause you to stick to the mat if you’re doing any floor work in the class. You’ll also want ones that have a sweat-wicking material with lots of stretch so you can move freely.
Low-impact sports bra
Slow pulses and targeted movements in barre mean that you won’t typically need the most supportive or compressive bra. A low- or medium-impact bra will provide enough support, and you can also wear them as a top by themselves. Longline ones have a little more material if you prefer more coverage.
Layers
If you like going to a barre studio, they can be a bit cold. In this case, sometimes a wrap sweater can be good to layer with. Once you get moving and warm up, it’s easy to remove during class.
Hair ties or a hair band
Pulling your hair out of the way helps limit distractions. Put it in a ponytail or braid, or if you like wearing your hair down, a hair band can push those front pieces away from your face as well.
Grip socks
They aren’t mandatory when you’re doing a barre workout at home, but in a studio setting they are usually required. Grippy barre socks prevent slipping on smooth surfaces and also give you better control and stability for standing postures.
Shop Our Top Barre Picks
Airlift Intrigue Bra
This fan-fave bra is a great one to have in your wardrobe with its racerback design and comfortable scoop neck.
7/8 High Waist Airlift Legging
Be sure to grab the coordinating leggings in the moisture-wicking Airlift material.
Seamless Ribbed Favorite Bra Tank
If you want a top with some more coverage, this hybrid bra and tank is the perfect compromise.
Performance Conquer Headband
Headbands are back in. Push your hair out of your face with this sleek style.
Snuggle Up Sweater Shawl
Throw on a shawl if it’s cold when you’re heading to class or if you need a couple minutes to warm up.
Pulse Grip Sock
Barre grip socks are paramount, and these ankle ones will easily go over your leggings.